Re: Linux Demo Days

[Martyn Bailey <nospam [at] solis.co.uk>]

On 4 Sep 99, at 11:12, Chris Croome wrote:

> On Fri, 03 Sep 1999 23:41:23 +0100 (BST), Richard
> <r.ibbotson [at] zetnet.co.uk> wrote:
>
> > In my own experience no one in the British community
> > wants to contribute to Linux. Only a few ivory tower
> > academics who think that homosexuality and a drug culture
> > think that Linux is politically accepatable.
>
> If we want this list to be open to all Linux users I don't think that
> comments like this will help.

I totally agree, but would go further to comment that statements
such as the above from Richard Ibbotson cause a lot of damage
and undo any good work or good will that may have been developed
amongst the Linux world, furthering the belief that Linux is for
white, middle class, educated oppressive tossers.

> If there are any gay members of this list they are going to be
> feeling very uncomfortable with this kind of homophobia. This is
> not good.
>
> Are there any women on this list or is it exclusively for white,
> racist, homophonic males?

Again, in full agreement. If this list and the ShefLUG in general is to
further its worthy cause of making Linux accessible and
acceptable, then there _must_ be a proactive and positive
approach toward challenging stereotypes and inequality based
upon the abuse of power - yes Richard, you have abused your
power on this list, and you do no good in your self appointed role of
promoting Linux as a result.

> I must admit I'm feeling rather pissed off with this and if crass
> comments like this don't stop I'm leaving.

Which would be a great shame indeed, but I think others would
follow you (if they haven't left already).

Richard. I really think you should put your house in order.

Regards

Martyn

--
Martyn Bailey - Solis: http://www.solis.co.uk

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